Getting a good smooth finish with no seams or bumps is a key part of having a fantastic looking model.

One of the ways this is done is with the correct use of various sanding tools. There are many different tools for different uses, from sandpaper, sanding sticks, flexible files and other tools.

Entering into this space is a new tool from Goodman models. Super Sanding Blocks.

The blocks come nicely packaged in a small cardboard box. Each block has a small circle on the side of the block that has been colored based on the grit. A guide shows each color to its grit. There is also a 1-page guide with instructions for use.

These are a series of 6 blocks of various grits that have been attached to a very stiff piece of acrylic material. The grits are as follows;

The blocks can be used wet or dry with the exception of the 80 grit which is dry only.

The blocks are just the right size to hold in your hand and make sanding and clean up of large areas fast and easy. The rigid surface also helps in keeping a truly flat surface to sand against. Something that sanding sticks cannot do.

Regular readers know I’m a sucker for new tools but these are well worth the money for sanding duties on your bench.

Many people know there is a special place in my heart for Airfix. They may not be perfect but for those of us of a certain age, there are great memories of going down to the model store on Saturday and spending our allowance on an Airfix kit. Many modeller’s in the UK started with a Airfix 1/72 Spitfire or similar subject.

At this year’s IPMS Scale ModelWorld Show at Telford Airfix have announced a new McDonnell Douglas FG.1 Phantom in 1/72 scale. This new tooling will be available in 2107. There has not been a new tool of this kit in quite a while. I built the Matchbox one in the mid 80’s. So looking forward to this one.

Here is a quick video showing a 3d cad mockup.

This and some other announcements makes 2017 a very good year for Airfix.

Did the base using celluclay then airbrushed with craft paint thinned with Windex. Shot it through the badger anthem 155 airbrush as it has a larger needle. Worked out very well and I’ll use craft paint again for bases.